Alberta pharmacists to renew prescriptions

Albertans will be able to get their prescriptions renewed at their local pharmacy starting July 1.

Health Minister Fred Horne calls the move a win-win situation as patients will no longer have to see a doctor to renew their medication.

"(This initiative) will provide Albertans with more access, more options and more convenience," he said.

"This initiative also supports physicians by freeing up time to see more patients, especially those with complex health needs."

All pharmacists across the province will be paid to provide the new service.

Also on July 1, the government will reduce the price it pays for generic drugs — meaning Albertans will pay less for their prescription and saving the province about $85 million in 2012 to 2013.

About $15.9 million of that money will help pharmacies in remote communities over the next three years expand their services.

"Alberta’s pharmacists are uniquely placed in the system, particularly in rural areas, to help address the many challenges associated with drug therapy," said Dr. James Kehrer, dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy at the University of Alberta.